Influence of Agroforestry Technology Strategies on Sustainable Rural Development in Rwanda, A Case of Farmer’s Cooperatives in Muhanga District

Abstract

This study examines how agroforestry technology strategies influence sustainable rural development in Rwanda, focusing on farmer cooperatives in Muhanga District. Rwanda faces severe land pressure and soil erosion, making agroforestry a vital solution for improving soil and farmer livelihoods. This research specifically looks at how tree species selection, soil and water conservation practices, and cooperative training services affect rural development. The study was guided by the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) Theory and the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF). The research used a descriptive design with both quantitative and qualitative methods. The target population consisted of members from the KIABR cooperative (Koperative Imparaniramusaruro y’Abahinzi-Borozi ba Rugeramigozi). Out of this population, a sample size of 255 farmers was selected using simple random sampling for the questionnaires, while purposive sampling was used to choose cooperative leaders for interviews. To ensure the quality of the data collection tools, a pilot study was conducted with a small group of farmers outside the final sample. For the quantitative data, validity was checked through expert review, and reliability was confirmed using a Cronbach’s alpha test. For the qualitative data, credibility and dependability were achieved through member checking and keeping a clear audit trail of the interview transcripts. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using SPSS for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. The findings showed that all agroforestry models had a strong positive effect on rural development, with Beta values ranging from .842 to .910. The R^2 values ranged from .709 to .828, showing that these agroforestry strategies explain a large part of the improvements in rural development. Soil and water conservation practices were the strongest predictor of positive livelihoods. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the Rwanda Cooperative Agency (RCA) and other agricultural institutions should strengthen cooperative training programs so farmers can access modern farming technologies. Additionally, KIABR and other cooperatives should encourage farmers to diversify their tree species to balance soil health with market value.